Is it normal for induction cooktops to make a buzzing noise? I asked an expert

Induction cooktops are a savvy switch for those hoping to cut down energy costs and make their kitchen safer. By heating pans directly, as opposed to heating a glass surface which in turn will heat your pan, they can bring water to a boil in a matter of minutes.

But this smart tech can feel overwhelming, especially if you've only recently made the switch. And one of the most common causes for concern among induction users is a low-pitched buzzing sound.

I asked an induction expert why induction cooktops can make buzzing sounds, and whether it's cause for concern. The short answer is that it's fairly common for induction cooktops to make buzzing noises, but there are some cases where it can indicate a fault. Here's what you need to know.

Why is my induction cooktop buzzing?

Induction cooktops use magnetic energy to heat your pans, and according to Chloe Blanchfield, product marketing manager at Hisense UK, this can cause a low buzing sound.

“A gentle buzzing or humming sound from an induction cooktop is normal and not usually a fault," Blanchfield told me. "The sound usually occurs because magnetic energy (electromagnetic fields) heats the pan and can cause it to vibrate slightly, especially on a higher heat or with thinner cookware."

So, if your cookware is on the thinner side, this may be contributingt to the buzzing noice. This could be a simple fix, especially if the buzzing irritates you, as switching to a tri-ply cookware set is a lot cheaper than ditching your whole cooktop!

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However, according to Blanchfield, the noise could also be down to the internal cooling featured in some cooktops.

"The cooktop’s internal cooling fan may also contribute to any buzzing sounds or vibrations, but usually aren’t anything to be concerned about.”

When should I be concerned?

Although it's clear that a buzzing noise is a normal feature in many induction cooktops, there are some cases where it could be worth getting a second opinion.

"It’s only a cause for concern if the noise from the induction cooktop is very loud or unusual," Blanchfield told me.

What counts as unusual, you may wonder? According to Hisense, this would be "rattling or high-pitched whining, or if it continues when the cooker is on a low heat. If so, the cooktop should be checked.”

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